Social Sciences research in the DTP is delivered through The Faculty of Development and Society. Research in the Faculty encompasses a range of disciplines, including education; planning, regeneration and housing; humanities; psychology; sociology and politics; architecture and built environment; and law and criminology.

Research in the White Rose DTP covers two leading social sciences areas – Sheffield Institute of Education (SIoE) and The Centre for Regional Economic and Social Research (CRESR).

Sheffield Institute of Education comprises two teaching departments and a research centre, the Centre for Development and Research in Education (CDARE). Research spans seven areas of expertise: childhood and early years; inclusion, diversity and social justice; higher education; language and literacy education; mathematics education; practice, innovation and professional learning; and science education. Research is designed to impact on educational policy and practice through researchers’ relationships with key policy-making organisations, user networks and professional associations. Funding comes from a variety of sources, including UK and international governments, major charities, the UK Research Councils, educational institutions, learned societies, businesses, and community organisations. 69% of Education research submitted to the 2014 REF was judged to be world-leading or internationally excellent.

As a leading UK policy research centre, CRESR seeks to understand the impact of social and economic disadvantage on places and people, and assess critically the policies and interventions targeted at these issues. Clients include government departments and agencies, local authorities, UK Research Councils, charities and foundations, international organisations, and the private sector. Key areas of expertise are environmental sustainability and energy; infrastructure and cities; housing; labour markets; spatial disadvantage; and voluntary and community sector. 81% of research submitted to the 2014 REF was judged to be world-leading or internationally excellent.

Doctoral researchers are supported by the Faculty’s Graduate School, which brings together the Faculty’s postgraduate researchers and academic staff. The Graduate School provides support and advice to research students, as well as training in research skills and techniques. Additionally, all postgraduate researchers at SHU are members of the University’s Doctoral School community, with access to University-wide training and other opportunities.